A couple of years ago I hosted a special viewing of my cousin’s documentary, Pump Life, in my studio. I invited two local doulas, some family, and anyone else who had spent grueling hours attached to a breast pump to nourish their child for any variety of reasons for each woman there to know. This mama attended that showing, and we all sat around in a big circle sharing stories with tears in our eyes. She, personally, was right in the midst of that part of her life and it was such an honor to hear her express her stresses, the difficulties and the also the growth she’d gone through becoming a mother. Fast worward to last week and I got to photograph her with her second beautiful baby boy in the studio.

Many, many moms I work with worry about their “wild” 2-3 year old at the newborn session, and I always assure them that I will take the time to connect with their child, show them around, let them be curious and touch equipment with my guidance, and take movement and snack breaks when I notice them needing it. Every older brother and sister this age is capable of participating in this session – you just have to let go of perfection and high expectations. The photo of him/her and the newborn baby may be with you too, it may be brief, it may be absolutely perfect – but know that no matter what, we will have fun doing it and the comfort and well-being of your children always trumps forcing the photo.

When I let the 2 1/2 year old “take” a photo of their parent – we always get the best, authentic smile from mom! I love this photo of you Stefanie!

Can you even deal with the level of cuteness in these two photos?? The peach fuzz! The yawning mouth! The fuzzy ears! The back wrinkles!

I’m so glad we could make this session happen for you all! It was so special to finally meet your husband and beautiful children and capture all this love! XOXO